Escape and survival pod

ABSTRACT

The present invention is directed to an escape and survival capsule that provides protection to occupants from, e.g., cataclysmic natural events such as tsunamis, flooding, monsoon, typhoons, tornadoes, hurricanes, water spouts, earthquakes and mudslides. The capsule may be designed to be inflatable with durable and rugged materials providing protection against hazardous environmental factors during one or more of the preceding cataclysmic events. The capsule may be designed to be easily stowable, transportable and deployable so that it can serve its intended purpose within minutes after the occurrence of any of the preceding or other cataclysmic events.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Prov. App. 61/795,666 filed Oct. 23, 2012, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to methods and apparatuses for surviving catastrophic events including floods, earthquakes, tornadoes, hurricanes, typhoons and tsunamis.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Severe natural disasters such as earthquakes, tornadoes, hurricanes, typhoons and tsunamis historically have caused catastrophic loss of life and property. Two recent examples (2004 Indian Ocean tsunami caused by the magnitude 9.1-9.3 Richter scale Sumatra-Andaman earthquake centered off of the west coast of Sumatra, Indonesia and the magnitude 9.0 Richter scale 2011 Tohoku earthquake/tsunami) illustrate the devastating impact these natural events have on life and property. The Indian Ocean tsunami alone was responsible for over 230,000 deaths in 14 countries bordering the Indian Ocean. Tsunamis are generally induced by earthquakes, and inflict their damage in two ways: the destructive force of a wall of water traveling at high speed over low-lying populated areas, and the resultant devastation caused by the receding water as it carries the debris along with it. Similar extreme weather events such as typhoons, tornadoes, severe tropical storms and hurricanes can inflict severe damage to life and property from forces generated by moving water, wind and debris propelled by such forces.

Organizations have responded in various ways to the need to mitigate loss of life and property due to these catastrophic natural disaster events. With respect to saving lives, several concepts for personal survival in the event of a tsunami or other major waterborne disaster (for example, major flood event, tornado over water, severe tropical storm, typhoon or hurricane) have been put forward to meet this need. One concept is a version of a hard-bottomed life raft with significant protection capabilities designed to accommodate up to two dozen persons.

Another concept is an aluminum capsule with seating and restraint devices designed to carry up to and secure four persons. The aluminum capsule is not designed to be a free-floating pod; rather, it has a tethering system designed to prevent it from being carried away from the object to which it is secured. In such a design, it is not at all clear as to whether it can maintain the ability to float in the water, although the shape of the sphere and the air-filled internal cavity will allow for some buoyancy. Furthermore, the aluminum hull will provide its occupants with a certain degree of protection against free-floating debris or fixed objects (for example, buildings), it is not clear if the occupants would be able to absorb the impact forces generated by striking large objects at velocity without sustaining serious injury despite the occupants being restrained inside the sphere. Aluminum is not a material that is well suited for absorbing high-impact forces such as those to be encountered during a severe natural disaster event. Furthermore, this design, with its rigid aluminum body, is not capable of being transported efficiently, as it is large and heavy; moving it from place to place would require a lifting harness and fork truck to hoist the device, and a flatbed truck to transport it. Moreover, the fact that the design being discussed here has a capacity of four adults and is rigid in nature presents a significant challenge to efficient storage, particularly if it is intended for use by an individual family. These particular aspects of the design—lack of shock mitigation, difficulty in transporting, and inefficient storage—present serious challenges to widespread deployment to and use by individuals who require a means of protecting themselves against the life-threatening hazards of severe natural disaster events such as catastrophic weather and geological events.

Another similar capsule is available and is made from fiberglass, rather than aluminum. However, the same challenges and deficiencies apply except that fiberglass is even less likely to absorb high-impact forces typically encountered during severe natural disaster events as fiberglass is easily shattered when striking hard objects, which can lead to water ingress, injury to occupants including occupants that are otherwise adequately restrained within the capsule and potential sinking of the capsule leading to the drowning of those within.

Thus, there is a need for an escape and survival pod or capsule designed to be easily transported, stored, deployed and used by people in need thereof and that is sufficiently rugged to withstand the severe forces generated by catastrophic natural disasters such as earthquakes, floods, tsunamis, tornadoes, typhoons, hurricanes and the like. The escape and survival capsule must be buoyant so that it will float in events of flooding, torrential rains such as monsoons, tsunamis, water spouts, tropical storms, hurricanes, typhoons and the like. The present invention provides such an escape and survival pod or capsule.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention addresses and overcomes the aforementioned limitations of currently available escape and survival pods or capsules for natural disasters by means of using new designs and materials as is described herein.

The present invention comprises a new design for an escape and survival pod, capsule or sphere that provides a means for persons to survive a natural disaster event including catastrophic water-related events such as tsunamis, floods, torrential rains such as monsoon, typhoons, hurricanes and tornadoes formed over water (i.e., water spouts). In one aspect, the survival capsule is buoyant (i.e., capable of floating while experiencing events of flooding, torrential rains such as monsoons, tsunamis, water spouts, tropical storms, hurricanes, typhoons and the like) and provides protection for up to four persons. The present invention is herein defined as an escape and survival capsule, survival capsule, escape and survival pod, survival pod, escape and survival sphere, survival sphere or simply as a capsule, pod or sphere and, in one embodiment, provides shock mitigation (i.e., protection against high-impact forces encountered by the capsule during a natural disaster event) and buoyancy (see, e.g., FIGS. 9 a-9 c). However, the present invention is capable of being modified with well-known design and manufacturing methods to accommodate more or less than four persons to fulfill the requirements or needs of any specific customer or customers.

Furthermore, the present invention provides for an efficient transport and storage capability due to the nature of its construction, which is light and collapsible (see, e.g., FIGS. 5 a-5 c). In one embodiment of the present invention, the escape and survival pod forms its shape from a series of 9 drop-stitch panels joined together by overlapping joints that are thermal welded together, with a bottom panel being comprised of a rigid material such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE), aluminum, or other structurally sound rigid material well known to those in the art (see, e.g., FIGS. 1 a-1 c). In another aspect of the present invention, the bottom panel may be comprised of the same drop-stitch material as the other remaining panels.

In yet another aspect of the present invention, another means by which to join the drop-stitch panels may be used including the use of glue or other suitable adhesives well known to those in the art. In another embodiment of the present invention, the escape and survival pod may be constructed from more or less than 12 panels. In one embodiment of the present invention, 10 drop-stitch panels comprising the sides of the survival capsule are contemplated along with 2 rigid panels comprising a rigid bottom and rigid top base such that a dodecahedron or dodecagon shape is formed. In one aspect of the present invention, the survival capsule so formed may be inflatable while in another aspect, the survival capsule may not be inflatable but optionally assembled in component parts as a static structure.

In one embodiment, each drop-stitch panel is inflated with compressed air or an inert gas, to achieve a pressure of at least 8 pounds per square inch (psi). In another embodiment, the survival capsule is pressurized to a pressure of about 8 psi to about 12 psi (see, e.g., FIGS. 10 a-10 c). However, the present invention is not so limited as each panel may be inflated to less than 8 psi or more than 12 psi, up to a pre-determined maximum safety limit. In one embodiment, each panel is constructed of two layers, joined together by nylon stitches, either laid out in a straight fashion or arranged in a cross-stitch (‘X’) manner. In other embodiments, a single layer or more than two layers are used to construct the panels.

In other embodiments, alternative materials for the stitches may be used, e.g., polyethylene teraphthalate or other suitable natural or synthetic material well known in the art.

In one embodiment, the drop-stitch panel layers are comprised of polyurethane-coated woven nylon fabric. In other embodiments, other materials may be used, including polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or Kevlar.

In one embodiment of the present invention, each drop-stitch panel thickness is about 4 inches. In other embodiments, other thicknesses may be used (for example, about 6 inches or greater). In one embodiment, the panel layers may be coated with certain coatings such as polyurethane coatings, techthane or other specialized coatings well known in the art to enhance the durability, abrasion, and puncture resistance qualities of the chosen panel material.

In one embodiment, each panel is inflated with compressed air. Compressed air may be obtained or produced from any readily available source, e.g., a compressed air cylinders or air compressors, both of which are available from well-known commercial vendors or outlets. The compressed air is directed through a network of inflation hoses and valves, forming the inflation manifold system (see, e.g., FIGS. 7 a-7 c). In other embodiments, an inert gas such as helium or another well-known inert gas such as another of the so-called noble gases and carbon dioxide (CO₂) may be used in lieu of or addition to compressed air.

In one embodiment, the panels are supported by a framework structure of inflatable drop-stitch beams, which are bonded to the interior sections of the panels (see, e.g., FIGS. 6 a-6 c). The panels are inflated through the same network of inflation hoses and valves that supply the panels. When inflated, the beams form a rigid skeleton that provides support to the overall structure, allowing the survival pod to retain its shape. In one aspect of the present invention, the beams are about 4 inches wide by about 6 inches high. In other embodiments of the present invention, other dimensions may be used.

In another aspect of the present invention, 10 drop-stitch panels may be used, with the bottom panel being a drop-stitch panel of about 4 inches or greater thickness. In another embodiment of the present invention, a secondary floor may be installed, on which the seating assembly may be mounted (see, e.g., FIGS. 9 b and 9 c). In the space between the secondary floor and bottom section, storage may be provided for emergency and other items as desired or required (e.g., U.S. Coast Guard or foreign-equivalent required emergency items, food, water, clothing, blankets, life preservers, flashlights, communications equipment and the like) and for a ballast tank, to provide stability while the survival pod is afloat. In one aspect of the present invention, the secondary floor is made from a drop-stitch panel of about 4 inches thickness. In other aspects, other thicknesses may be used. The secondary floor is inflated with compressed air, compressed CO₂ or compressed helium or other inert gas (such as another of the so-called noble gases) in the same manner as the other drop-stitch panels and support beams are inflated, using the inflation manifold assembly.

In one embodiment of the present invention, access to the interior of the survival pod is through a hatch. In one aspect, the hatch is affixed to the top panel, allowing for access from the top of the pod (see, e.g., FIG. 1 a). In another embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4 a, access may be through the side of the survival pod through a hatch affixed to a side panel. Moreover, in another aspect of the present invention, access may be through the bottom of the survival pod, with a hatch affixed to the bottom panel. In one aspect, the hatch is made from a lightweight rigid composite material such as Kevlar, HDPE, chlorosulfonated polyethylene synthetic rubber, poly(vinyl chloride), rigid foam or other suitable materials well known in the art. In other aspects of the present invention, the hatch may be made from a composite foam material overlaid on each side with a fiberglass-reinforced plastic layer. Other suitable and well known materials may be used and are contemplated herein. In one embodiment, the hatch is fitted with a venting system to allow outside air to enter the interior of the survival sphere.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the occupant seats may be comprised of drop-stitch material and take shape through inflation with compressed air, compressed CO₂ or compressed helium or other inert gas (such as another of the so-called noble gases) using the same inflation assembly network used to inflate the panels and internal support structure (see, e.g., FIGS. 8 a-8 c). In one aspect, rigid materials, e.g., HDPE, other plastics, chlorosulfonated polyethylene synthetic rubber, Kevlar, poly(vinyl chloride), rigid foam or other suitable rigid materials known in the art may be used to reinforce the seats. Each seat may be fitted with a restraint system to secure the occupant to the seat. In one embodiment, grab handles may be bonded or otherwise affixed to the interior of each panel facing the occupant. Grab handles may be comprised of HDPE, chlorosulfonated polyethylene synthetic rubber, Kevlar, poly(vinyl chloride), rigid foam or other suitable materials well known in the art.

In another aspect of the present invention, a clear material, such as poly(vinyl chloride), plexiglass or aircraft-grade glass may be used for the layers of a given panel, providing a window for the occupants and a means for outside light to enter the interior of the survival sphere (see FIGS. 2 a and 2 c).

In one embodiment of the present invention, the survival sphere may be collapsible. In one aspect, with the entry hatch on the top panel, the panels, when fully deflated, fold down on top of each other. The internal support structure and inflatable seats also collapse down, forming an efficient storage footprint (see FIGS. 5 a-5 c). In yet another aspect, four lifting handles may be provided on each side of the survival sphere for easy lifting and transporting. In other embodiments, additional lifting handles may be provided for larger versions of the present invention. The lifting handles may be comprised of HDPE, chlorosulfonated polyethylene synthetic rubber, Kevilar, poly(vinyl chloride), rigid foam or other suitable materials well known in the art.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 a shows a top view of the dodecahedron form of the survival capsule with the access hatch embedded in the top panel, according to one aspect of the present invention.

FIG. 1 b shows a side view of the dodecahedron form of the survival capsule, according to one aspect of the present invention.

FIG. 1 c shows a top-angle view of the dodecahedron form of the survival capsule showing the access hatch embedded in the top panel, according to one aspect of the present invention.

FIG. 2 a shows a top view of the dodecahedron form of the survival capsule with an embedded window in a panel, according to one aspect of the present invention.

FIG. 2 b shows a top-angle view of the dodecahedron form of the survival capsule with an embedded window in a panel, according to one aspect of the present invention.

FIG. 3 a shows a top view drawing with dimensions showing an inflatable fender system that surrounds the dodecahedron form of the survival capsule, according to one aspect of the present invention.

FIG. 3 b shows a side view of the dodecahedron form of the survival capsule with fender system attached, according to one aspect of the present invention.

FIG. 3 c shows a top-angle view of the dodecahedron form of the survival capsule with fender system attached, according to one aspect of the present invention.

FIG. 4 a shows a top view of the dodecahedron form of the survival capsule, with access hatch in side panel, according to one aspect of the present invention.

FIG. 4 b shows a side view of the dodecahedron form of the survival capsule, with access hatch in side panel, according to one aspect of the present invention.

FIG. 4 c shows a top-angle view of the dodecahedron form of the survival capsule, with access hatch in side panel, according to one aspect of the present invention.

FIG. 5 a shows a top view of the dodecahedron form of the survival capsule in collapsed state, according to one aspect of the present invention.

FIG. 5 b shows a side view of the dodecahedron form of the survival capsule in collapsed state, according to one aspect of the present invention.

FIG. 5 c shows a top-angle view of the dodecahedron form of the survival capsule in collapsed state, according to one aspect of the present invention.

FIG. 6 a shows a top view of the internal support beams, forming the structural support system, according to one aspect of the present invention.

FIG. 6 b shows a side view of the internal support beams, forming the structural support system, according to one aspect of the present invention.

FIG. 6 c shows a top-angle view of the internal support beams, forming the structural support system, according to one aspect of the present invention.

FIG. 7 a shows a top view of the of panel system with inflation manifold, according to one aspect of the present invention.

FIG. 7 b shows a side view of the of panel system with inflation manifold, according to one aspect of the present invention.

FIG. 7 c shows a top-angle view of the of panel system with inflation manifold, according to one aspect of the present invention.

FIG. 7 d shows a top-angle view of the inflation manifold system, with network of inflation hoses connected to each panel, according to one aspect of the present invention.

FIG. 8 a shows a top view of the survival capsule seating arrangement, according to one aspect of the present invention.

FIG. 8 b shows a side view of the survival capsule seating arrangement, according to one aspect of the present invention.

FIG. 8 c shows a top-angle view of the survival capsule seating arrangement, according to one aspect of the present invention.

FIG. 9 a shows a top view of the survival capsule seating arrangements of 4 persons seated, drawn to scale, according to one aspect of the present invention.

FIG. 9 b shows a side view of the survival capsule seating arrangements of 4 persons seated, drawn to scale, according to one aspect of the present invention.

FIG. 9 c shows a top-angle view of the survival capsule seating arrangements of 4 persons seated, drawn to scale, according to one aspect of the present invention.

FIG. 10 a shows a top view of one drop-stitch panel, with dimensions specified for one embodiment, showing pressure relief valves, according to one aspect of the present invention.

FIG. 10 b shows a side view of one drop-stitch panel, with dimensions specified for one embodiment, showing pressure relief valves, according to one aspect of the present invention.

FIG. 10 c shows a top-angle view of one drop-stitch panel, with dimensions specified for one embodiment, showing pressure relief valves, according to one aspect of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

FIGS. 1 a through 2 b show a fully inflated survival capsule from top, side, and top-angle views. The figures show a top entry/exit access hatch 10 for access in and out of the survival capsule. A ladder 16 is shown as a means of accessing the access hatch 10. FIGS. 2 a and 2 b show a window or porthole 20 in a side panel. The window 20 may be comprised of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), plexiglass, safety glass such as the glass used in automobile windshields, aircraft-grade glass or any other suitable transparent material capable of being integrated or embedded within one or more of the panels 12 of the survival capsule. The windows 20 may be affixed to or embedded within the one or more panels 12 such that they are secure and not capable of being opened. Alternatively, the windows 20 may be affixed to or embedded within one or more panels 12 with mechanisms such as one or more hinges allowing for the opening and closing of the window 20. In certain embodiments, the hatch 10 may be designed to form a watertight seal once closed. In certain other embodiments, the hatch 10 may not have a watertight seal. In another embodiment, a window or porthole 20 may be embedded or integrated within the hatch 10. Additionally and/or optionally, the hatch 10 may be equipped with ventilation louvers that are designed to allow outside air into the survival sphere. In certain other embodiments, the outside ventilation louvers are designed to minimize water ingress into the capsule.

The panel sections 12 are shown fully inflated and bonded together. The method of bonding may be thermal welding or gluing of fabric strips that form an overlap joint between panel sections 12. In one aspect of the present invention, a rigid section forms the bottom of the sphere, as depicted in FIGS. 1-6 and FIGS. 8-9. In the embodiment in which a rigid bottom floor 14 is provided, a secondary floor internal to the craft also may be provided, which improves shock mitigation and allows for an internal cavity in which emergency supplies may be stored and a ballast bladder inserted for ride stability while the craft is afloat. Alternatively, a ballast bladder may not be installed in situations in which the survival capsule is not intended for cataclysmic water events but dry ones such as earthquakes, mudslides, high winds, tornadoes, and the like. The rigid bottom section 14 may be manufactured from certain thermoplastic or thermosetting polymers using known processing methods (e.g., extrusion molding, rotomolding or thermoforming). The rigid bottom section 14 also may be manufactured using a high density composite foam with fiberglass-reinforced plastic laminate skins for protection, aluminum, either in a solid or honeycomb configuration, or any other suitable material providing rigidity. In one aspect of the present invention, the rigid bottom section 14 may be manufactured as a single piece. In another aspect of the present invention, the rigid bottom section 14 may be manufactured in two or more pieces such that the pieces are capable of being fitted together.

FIGS. 3 a through 3 c show a survival sphere with an inflatable fender system 30 attached circumferentially around the middle part of the sphere. As depicted in FIGS. 3 a-3 c and according to one aspect of the present invention, the fender system 30 is comprised of a five-chambered tube or sponson. Each chamber may be pressurized up to the maximum pressure dictated by design and materials selected. In certain embodiments, the maximum pressure per square inch (psi) is embedded in or on one or more chambers of the survival sphere so that it may be read by a person inflating the one or more chambers. In a like manner and in certain other embodiments, each panel 12 of the survival sphere may have the maximum psi for such panel 12 embedded in or on it so that a person may read it and know the maximum psi to inflate such panel 12. The one or more chambers may be comprised of durable inflatable fabric (e.g., polyurethane coated woven nylon fabric). The fabric may or may not be coated with specialized coatings such as polyurethane designed to increase the abrasion and puncture resistance of the fabric. In certain embodiments, such a coating is applied to the fabric. In certain other embodiments, the fabric is not so coated. Alternatively, the fender system 30 may be filled with high density foam, or a combination of high density foam and pressurized air, pressurized CO₂ or pressurized helium or another noble gas, or any combination of the preceding. The fender system 30 may be attached to the survival sphere by means of attachment strips made from the same fabric as the fender system and survival sphere. In certain embodiments, the fender system 30 may be attached to the survival sphere by means of thermal welding or gluing. In certain embodiments, a tensioning system using bolt rope and rope tract also may be used to ensure each sponson section is securely fastened to the outside of the sphere. In certain embodiments, each chamber of the fender system 30 is independent from each other, so that if one chamber is punctured and loses air, CO₂, helium, etc., in the embodiment in which pressurized air, CO₂, helium, etc. is used to form the sponson chamber, the other chambers will remain fully inflated. In the embodiment in which pressurized air, CO₂, helium, etc. is used to inflate the fender system 30, each chamber is inflated using the inflation manifold assembly, in which a system of inflation hoses and valves are used to inflate each section of the survival sphere that requires pressurized air, CO₂, helium, etc. to assume its designed working form.

FIGS. 4 a through 4 c show certain embodiments in which the survival sphere has a side panel entry/exit access hatch 40. In one aspect, the method of entry into the fully inflated survival sphere may be from the side of the sphere. In this embodiment, a hatch 40 (e.g., a specially modified Freeman Marine flush hatch) may be embedded within or affixed upon or to a side panel of the survival sphere, offering access to the interior of the sphere from a height in which a ladder is not needed for such access. In certain embodiments, the hatch 40 may be designed to form a watertight seal once closed. In certain other embodiments, the hatch may not have a watertight seal. In certain embodiments, the hatch 40 may be equipped with ventilation louvers that are designed to allow outside air into the survival sphere. In certain other embodiments, the outside ventilation louvers are designed to minimize water ingress into the capsule. Additionally and/or alternatively, the hatch 40 may optionally include a window or porthole as well. In certain embodiments, the hatch may be made from a high-density composite foam (e.g., fiberglass infused polyurethane foam) and in certain other embodiments, the high-density composite foam may have additional features such as fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP) laminated skins surrounding the foam core for added rigidity and protection. In certain other embodiments, the hatch may be made from a composite or plastic material, designed for high impact resistance while being comparatively light in weight. In certain embodiments, a window may be embedded within or affixed to or on the hatch. In certain other embodiments, a window is not embedded within or affixed to or on the hatch. In embodiments in which a window is embedded within or affixed to or upon the hatch, the window material may be comprised of poly(vinyl chloride), plexiglass, safety glass such as the glass used in automobile windshields, aircraft-grade glass or any other suitable transparent material capable of being integrated or embedded within the hatch.

FIGS. 5 a through 5 c show an embodiment of the present invention in which the survival sphere is in its collapsed state. The design of the panels is such that when not inflated with air, CO₂, helium, etc., they fold down on top of each other in a stacking pattern. In this embodiment, the internal support beams deflate and fold down with the panels. In certain embodiments, as depicted in FIGS. 5 a-5 c, the inflatable seats may deflate as well, and compress down when the survival sphere panels are folded down on top of them. In this embodiment of the present invention, the survival sphere is collapsible irrespective of where the entry/exit access hatch 10 is located.

FIGS. 6 a through 6 c show the survival sphere's internal support structure. In this embodiment, the support beams or stringers 60 are roughly rectangular in shape, measuring about 6 inches wide by about 4 inches tall. In other embodiments, the support beams 60 may be of different dimensions based on the size of the survival sphere or other factors taken into consideration requiring larger or smaller beams. In one embodiment, the support beams 60 are made from the same drop-stitch fabric as the main panels, and may be inflated to the same or similar operating pressures (e.g., about 8 psi to about 12 psi). The purpose of the support beams 60 is to form an internal support framework that gives the survival sphere increased rigidity and structural strength. In one embodiment, each support beam 60 section may be a separate chamber, supplied with pressurized air, CO₂, helium, etc. through an inflation valve, and equipped with a pressure relief valve to ensure over-pressurization does not occur. In this particular embodiment, because each support beam 60 is a separate chamber, loss of air, CO₂, helium, etc., in one section ensures that the other chambers are not affected. The number of individual beam sections 60 can vary based on the requirements of the design, from a minimum of two chambers (sections) to as many as 16, or more, depending on size of the survival sphere or certain specifications requiring additional beam sections. In certain embodiments, each beam chamber is separated from the other by a fabric baffle, which may be made from the same material from which the panel layers are constructed.

FIGS. 7 a through 7 d show top, side, and top-angle views respectively, of the survival sphere's panel system with inflation manifold assembly 70. In one embodiment, a central inflation port may be provided in which an inflation cylinder may be attached through a supplied harness system. Pressurized air, CO₂, helium. etc. is supplied to each drop-stitch panel, internal beam chamber, inflatable seat structure, and secondary floor, according to one embodiment of the present invention. Commercial off-the-shelf inflation hoses may be used and may be connected to each individual inflation port through inlet valves that allow compressed air, CO₂, helium, etc., to flow in one direction, following an inflation sequence that is mapped out according to one aspect of the present invention. The inflation sequence may be modified based on the needs of the design. As the survival sphere takes shape, and all components are fully inflated, the pressure relief valves (PRV) in each chamber so equipped release air, CO₂, helium, etc., until the designed working pressure (DWP) is achieved.

The DWP can be set and regulated by the PRV, meaning that the specific PRV model selected in the design governs the amount of pressurized air, CO₂, helium, etc., each chamber will hold. Therefore, the entire survival sphere can be inflated to the same DWP (e.g., 8 psi), and thus can be filled in its entirety from the central inflation port, to which the inflation cylinder is attached. In another embodiment, certain sections of the survival sphere can be filled to different pressures, which are dictated by the specifications of the PRV. For example, if the survival sphere panels and seating system is designed to be filled to 8 psi, but the internal beam support system is designed to be filled to 12 psi, then the survival sphere and internal supporting structure can be filled to the specified pressures based on the model of PRV attached to the chamber and the design of the inflation manifold system 70. Or, alternatively, the survival sphere panels, secondary floor, and seating structure can be filled automatically to the same pressure from the central inflation port, and the internal support beams can be filled separately, with each chamber being filled through an internal valve located in the baffle. In one embodiment, the inflation hoses 72 run between the panels through a fabric channel, entering each panel through an inflation port, according to a manifold design, using inlet and outlet valves to convey the pressurized air, CO₂, helium, etc. In another embodiment, the inflation hoses 72 run along the internal beam sections and fill each chamber by bypassing the baffle through an inlet and outlet system that is outside the beam. In one embodiment, the individual beam chambers 60 are filled through a one way inflation valve system built into the baffle. In either embodiment, the individual chambers 60 are isolated from each other, meaning that pressurization failure of one chamber 60 does not result in pressurization failure in any other chamber 60. Likewise, each drop-stitch panel 12 may be isolated from other panels so that pressurization failure of one drop-stitch panel 12 does not result in pressurization failure to any other drop-stitch panel 12.

FIGS. 8 a through 9 c show top, side, and top-angle views of the survival sphere with seating arrangement 80, for 4 adult persons. In one embodiment, the seating arrangement 80 may be with each occupant seated 90 degrees to each other. In other embodiments, the seating arrangement 80 may be with each occupant seated less than 90 degrees to each other. In other embodiments, the seating arrangement 80 may be with each occupant seated greater than 90 degrees to each other. In one embodiment of the present invention, 4 seats are provided in the survival sphere. In yet other embodiments of the present invention, more than 4 seats are provided. In still other embodiments of the present invention, less than 4 seats are provided. In one embodiment, each seat or the entire seating arrangement 80 may be inflatable and may be made from the same drop-stitch material as the survival sphere panels and internal support beams. In another embodiment, the seat backs may be made from a rigid material (e.g., injection molded thermoplastic), and may be deployed and locked in place manually by the occupants of the survival sphere. In another embodiment, the seating arrangement 80 may sit atop the secondary floor, which itself may be a drop-stitch panel about 4 inches thick. In other embodiments, the seating arrangement 80 may be affixed to the rigid bottom section 14. In other embodiments, the secondary floor may be comprised of drop-stitch material that is less than 4 inches thick. In yet other embodiments, the secondary floor may be comprised of drop-stitch material that is greater than 4 inches thick. In yet still other embodiments, the secondary floor may be comprised of rigid material instead of drop-stitch material as is described, supra.

FIGS. 8 a through 9 c depict the seating arrangement 80 in its inflated state. In one embodiment, the seating arrangement 80 may be inflated to the DWP through the inflation manifold assembly system. In certain embodiments, safety harnesses may be provided to secure the occupants of the survival capsule. In one embodiment, grab handles may be provided opposite each occupant, attached to the interior panel, for added safety. In another embodiment, positioned between the secondary floor and the rigid bottom section 14 of the survival sphere, a space is provided for storing emergency supplies. In one embodiment, a ballast system may be installed in the space between the secondary floor and the rigid bottom section 14. In one aspect of the present invention, the ballast system may be a fabric bladder filled with water or other liquid to a certain weight, to provide stability and orientation to the sphere while it is in operation. In another embodiment, the ballast system may be of another design and may or may not be stored within the space between the secondary floor and the rigid bottom section 14. In one embodiment, an interior lighting system may be provided, operated by battery power, allowing the occupants to see at night or in conditions of poor lighting. In another embodiment, a portable generator installed in the survival sphere may provide the power for such lighting.

FIGS. 10 a through 10 c show an individual panel 12 with dimensions. In one embodiment, the panel 12 may be in the shape of a pentagon, as shown. While in other embodiments, the panel 12 may be configured into any number of other polygon shapes, e.g., tetragon, tetragon, hexagon, heptagon, octagon, nonagon, decagon, etc. In the event that the survival capsule is configured with the pentagon-shaped panels 12, the resulting capsule may form a dodecahedron or dodecagon structure, although other shapes and structures are contemplated herein depending upon the configuration of each individual panel. Moreover, panels 12 of different configurations and sizes may be combined into a single structure depending upon the desired properties.

Each of the individual panels 12 may be comprised of drop-stitch materials as described herein. Moreover, other types of materials and attachment methods may be used to form the survival capsule. Such materials and attachment methods are commonly known in the art.

Each panel 12 may be individually inflatable and independent of the inflation of the other panels 12 such that failure of one panel 12 to inflate or the loss of inflation of one panel 12 will not cause the failure of inflation of any other panel 12 or result in the deflation of any other panel 12. In other embodiments, all inflatable components of the survival capsule including, e.g., each panel 12 and/or beam 60, may be inflated concurrently to increase the speed of inflation of the survival capsule.

In any of the panel designs and configurations, each panel 12 may be inflated by means of the inflation manifold system 70, as discussed supra, or each panel 12 may be inflated through a valve 100 individually by means of any number of commercially available pumps, e.g., air pumps.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the dimensions for each panel are about 90 inches wide, with each side being about 56 inches long. In other embodiments, other dimensions may be used based on the requirements of the design and the size of the survival sphere. In one embodiment of the present embodiment, each drop-stitch panel is about 4 inches thick. In other embodiments, drop-stitch panels thicker or thinner than 4 inches may be used based on the requirements of the design and the size of the sphere. In one aspect of the present invention, the drop-stitch panel may be made of two synthetic fabric layers, top and bottom, connected to each other by synthetic stitches designed for the application. In one embodiment, the stitches may be straight.

In another embodiment, the stitches may be crossed (‘X’ stitching). In one embodiment, the length of the stitches determines the thickness of the inflated panel. In one aspect, the number and configuration of the stitches determines the maximum pressure to which the panel can be inflated. In one embodiment, each panel section may have a section of fabric that extends beyond the inflated section, on all sides, to serve as an attachment flap, to a width of about 2 inches. In other embodiments, the width of the attachment flap may be greater than 2 inches. In other embodiments, the width of the attachment flap may be less than 2 inches. In one embodiment, each panel may be joined to the other panel through an overlap weld. In another embodiment, each panel may be joined to the other panel through a prayer weld. The panels are joined when the fabric attachment flap of one panel overlaps the adjoining panel by a certain amount (e.g., 1 inch—although other overlap distances may be used depending on the process), with one attachment flap placed over the other, being bonded together either through a thermal or friction welding process, or by gluing. The outer framework of the survival sphere is completed when all panels are bonded together, including the rigid bottom. The internal components of the craft are bonded to the appropriate places using the same method, that is, by use of attachment flaps that are separate from but attached to the inflatable chambers.

The Applicants have provided an improved escape and survival capsule for surviving waterborne disaster events such as tsunamis, water spouts, flooding, severe rains, monsoon, tropical storms, typhoons, hurricanes and the like. Furthermore, the Applicants have provided an improved escape and survival capsule for surviving terrestrial natural disasters and cataclysmic ecological events such as earthquakes, mudslides, high winds, tornadoes, hurricanes and typhoons not involving heavy rains or flooding, and the like. Alternatively, the escape and survival capsule may be used for recreational purposes such as white water rafting-type activities or any other recreational pursuits.

The present invention provides numerous advantages to surviving such natural calamities some of which include, but are not limited to: (a) efficient storage of the survival sphere when deflated; (b) easily transportable in its deflated state; (c) comparatively inexpensive due to the relative simplicity of its design; (d) easily deployed in an emergency situation as the survival sphere can be carried and transported by 4 adults, inflated, set-up and ready within minutes; (e) it is rugged and durable, and easily repairable, meaning it can be used multiple times; (f) it is highly buoyant, and will maintain flotation even if one or more panel chambers are compromised or destroyed; and (g) due to the nature of the air-filled panels and fender system, or foam-filled fender system, impacts are absorbed effectively, generating much greater shock mitigation than an aluminum or fiberglass version of a survival capsule, and thus far less potential for occupant injury.

While the above description contains many specific embodiments, these should not be construed as limitations on the scope, but as exemplifications of some present embodiments. Many other ramifications and variations are possible within the teachings and disclosures herein. For example, materials may be changed for the main inflatable panels, and thin, rigid Kevlar panels may be bonded to the outside (or inside) of the main inflatable panels to provide extra puncture protection, etc. The internal beam structure may be designed in various orientations, whether in a uniform framework design as contemplated by some of the embodiments herein or in alternative configurations, such as circumferentially only. The fender system (for impact protection) may be made from a rigid thermoplastic material and applied in sections, rather than being an inflatable or foam filled fabric collar or sponson, as described in certain embodiments herein. The survival sphere may be used for recreational activities, such as white water rafting, rather than purely for a life-saving purpose in the event of an emergency.

Modification of the above-described assemblies and methods for carrying out the present invention, combinations between different variations as practicable, and variations of aspects of the invention that are obvious to those of skill in the art are intended to be within the scope of the claims. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A survival capsule, comprising: a base section; a top section; and, a middle section between the base section and top section, wherein the middle section is comprised of one or more polygonal-shaped panels which are reconfigurable relative to one another from a collapsed state where the base and top sections are adjacent to one another to a deployed state which provides separation between the base and top sections.
 2. The capsule of claim 1 wherein the base section is rigid.
 3. The capsule of claim 1 wherein the base section is configured into a pentagon shape.
 4. The capsule of claim 1 wherein the top section comprises an access hatch.
 5. The capsule of claim 1 wherein the top section is rigid.
 6. The capsule of claim 1 wherein the middle section is comprised of at least 2 panels.
 7. The capsule of claim 6 wherein the panels are configured into pentagon shapes.
 8. The capsule of claim 6 wherein the panels are comprised of a drop-stitch material.
 9. The capsule of claim 1 further comprising a seating arrangement located within the capsule.
 10. The capsule of claim 9 wherein the seating arrangement is attached to the base section.
 11. The capsule of claim 9 wherein the seating arrangement is inflatable.
 12. The capsule of claim 1 further comprising one or more beams which provide structural support to the capsule.
 13. The capsule of claim 11 wherein the one or more beams are inflatable.
 14. The capsule of claim 1 wherein the one or more polygonal-shaped panels are inflatable.
 15. The capsule of claim 13 wherein the one or more polygonal-shaped panels are independently or concurrently inflatable.
 16. The capsule of claim 1 further comprising a fender system.
 17. The capsule of claim 16 wherein the fender system is inflatable.
 18. The capsule of claim 4 further comprising a window located in the access hatch.
 19. The capsule of claim 1 further comprising a window located in at least one of the polygonal-shaped panels.
 20. The capsule of claim 1 further comprising a valve in at least one of the polygonal-shaped panels for inflating the panel. 